The Library has many supports and services to help you get where you want to go. Check out the guides and important library information on how you can best use the library to accomplish your goals.
Find the Services You Need
Adult Literacy
The Adult Learning Department offers book discussions and information about DC adult literacy programs through our directory.
American Sign Language Classes and Services
Webpage breaking down the available classes and services for American Sign Language.
Appointments at The People's Archive
Make an Appointment with The People's Archive to meet with staff and connect with their special collections.
Assistive Technology Support
A guide to assistive technology and equipment available throughout the DCPL system.
Beyond the Book
Beyond the Book is a city-wide reading and learning club that engages developing readers across D.C. around a carefully selected title along with fun and educational learning activities that will deepen their understanding and enjoyment of the book as well as build their reading skills.
Books from Birth
All children who live in DC are eligible to receive a free book by mail each month from birth until age five to build their home libraries.
Borrowing Materials
Find information on borrowing books, DVDs, eBooks and more, including checkout limits, renewal periods and placing holds.
Citizenship Classes
Prepare for the United States Naturalization Exam with classes at DC Public Library
Coworking at DC Public Library
DC Public Library is your neighborhood coworking destination. From supporting your day-to-day work with flexible workspaces to growing your skillset to get that promotion to striking out on your own and starting your first business, the library is here for all the ways you work.
Dance and Recording Studios (Studio Lab)
The Dance and Recording Studios, or Studio Lab, provides space to focus on exploring, learning and celebrating dance, music and sound production, photography and videography.
DC Jail Video Visitation
DC Public Library partners with D.C. Jail in their Video Visitation program.
DC Talking Book and Braille Program (NLS)
Part of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled (NLS).
Devices for Residents
This device pilot program is part of the District’s Tech Together DC initiative and is funded through the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) Emergency Connectivity Fund (ECF).
Digital Preservation (Memory Lab)
A do-it-yourself (DIY) service at the Labs that provides you equipment to digitize home movies, scan photographs or slides and more! Step-by-step instructions are available letting you control the process of your personal archiving project from start to finish.
A brief equipment tutorial is required at the beginning of a user’s first session.
ESL Groups
The Adult Learning Department offers English Conversation Circles for those looking to improve their speaking and listening skills. This department also offers Citizenship Classes for those looking to pass the US Citizenship Exam.
Event Rentals at MLK
Host an event at the newly designed Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library.
Event Supplies Library
Are you planning an event? DC Public Library has partnered with the DC Office of Planning to bring you their Event Lending Library to the Labs at MLK Library.
Group Visits to the People's Archive and Lesson Plans
Visit the People's Archive with your organization or school group.
Interlibrary Loan
Interlibrary Loan is a way to request books, microfilm, articles and other material not owned by the DC Public Library. The service is available to DC Public Library customers with current library cards in good standing.
Legal Support Services
In partnership with the Neighborhood Legal Services Program and Legal Counsel for the Elderly, DC Public Library is happy to provide legal assistance services.
Library By Mail
Service to mail library material to those who cannot physically visit a DCPL location due to disability or illness.
Maker Space and Machinery (Fabrication Lab)
The Fabrication Lab, or Fab Lab, a library maker space provides you with equipment, programs and tools to explore, learn and make. The Fabrication Lab connects you with other D.C. makers and helps you scale your creative and entrepreneurial projects.
Marianne’s by DC Central Kitchen
Located on the first floor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Public Library in downtown, DC, Marianne’s by DC Central Kitchen builds on the hugely successful DC Central Kitchen Cafe model.
Meeting & Study Rooms
Library card holders can reserve meeting and study rooms free of charge.
MLK Library Tours
Take a guided tour of the modernized Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library in downtown D.C.
Notary Public Commission Services
The Notary Public Commission, a free service located on the 2nd floor of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, is happy to help you notarize any eligible documents.
Passport Acceptance Office
Renew your passport or apply for a new one at The Passport Acceptance Office at DC Public Library.
Peer Support Specialists
The Peer Outreach Program at DC Public Library supports library customers experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness.
Public Art & Exhibits
The DC Public Library celebrates art and exhibits as a source of learning, discovery, growth, and connection. The Art and Exhibits Program at DC Public Library is a portal to the library’s resources and a laboratory for engagement with Washington, D.C.’s past, present and future.
Public Computers & Printing
Information about using public access computers, printing, and scanning.
Reasonable Accomodations
Request reasonable accommodations for DC Public Library events, programs, services, and Board of Trustees meetings.
Scans from The People's Archive
Learn how to order scans or copies from The People’s Archive collections. Please note some scans include fees.
Small Business Help
Receive a one-on-one business consultation at the library in partnership with the DC Department of Small and Local Business.
Staff Picks
Get a personalized reading list delivered right to your inbox with Staff Picks!
Tax Preparation
Get help preparing your income tax return through the library partnership with the AARP Foundation.
Tool Library
Have an upcoming DIY project? Discover what you can do with the Labs brand new Tool Library!
Voter Registration
DC Public Library serves as a voter registration agency throughout the year as well as a voting center during elections.
